SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR SURVEYING HABITS PREDISPOSING HUMAN POPULATION TO LIFESTYLE DISEASES IN NORTHERN INDIA

Abstract

The invention presents a survey aimed at identifying lifestyle habits that predispose individuals to Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) in Northern India. Conducted among 518 participants, the study revealed a significant prevalence of lifestyle diseases, including a 25.9% incidence of Diabetes Mellitus and substantial numbers reporting hypertension and cardiovascular diseases. Key lifestyle risk factors identified included poor dietary practices, physical inactivity, and high stress levels. Notably, 51% of respondents did not see the necessity of regular health checkups despite the evident risks. The findings emphasize the need for public health interventions to promote healthier lifestyle choices, increase awareness of NCD risks, and encourage routine health monitoring, aiming to reduce the burden of lifestyle diseases and improve overall health outcomes in the community.

Specification

Description:[0001] The present invention pertains to the field of public health research and epidemiology. It specifically addresses the investigation of lifestyle habits, health behaviours, and dietary practices that contribute to the increasing prevalence of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) within the population of Northern India. The invention also involves the analysis of data to establish correlations between lifestyle choices and health outcomes, thereby aiming to inform public health strategies and interventions.

Background of the Invention
[0002] The rapid socio-economic changes and urbanization in India have significantly transformed the lifestyle of its population over the past few decades. Modern work cultures, an increase in the availability of processed foods, and changing dietary habits have contributed to the emergence of various lifestyle-related diseases. NCDs, which include conditions such as hypertension, diabetes mellitus, heart disease, and obesity, are now recognized as a major public health challenge, especially in developing nations like India.
[0003] These diseases often result from a combination of genetic predisposition and modifiable risk factors associated with lifestyle choices. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), NCDs are responsible for a significant portion of global mortality, leading to the term "silent killers" due to their often-asymptomatic nature until advanced stages. Given the alarming rates of these diseases, understanding the underlying lifestyle factors that predispose individuals to NCDs is crucial for developing effective public health interventions.
[0004] The objective of the present survey is to gather comprehensive data about the lifestyle habits of individuals living in Northern India and to analyze the potential correlations between these habits and the prevalence of lifestyle diseases.

Objects of the Invention
[0005] An object of the present invention is to identify the lifestyle habits and practices that contribute to the development of NCDs among the population in Northern India.
[0006] Another object of the present invention is to assess the prevalence of lifestyle diseases within diverse demographic groups in the region.
[0007] Yet another object of the present invention is to analyze the relationship between lifestyle choices, awareness, and health-seeking behaviours among individuals.
[0008] Another object of the present invention is to provide insights that can inform public health interventions aimed at reducing the burden of lifestyle diseases.




Summary of the Invention
[0009] The invention encapsulates a comprehensive survey study conducted among 518 participants in Northern India to evaluate the habits and practices that predispose individuals to lifestyle diseases. The data collected from the survey revealed a high prevalence of conditions such as heart disease, type-2 diabetes mellitus, and hypertension, linked to lifestyle choices and behaviors.
[0010] Key findings indicated that 25.9% of participants reported suffering from Diabetes Mellitus, while 23.9% and 7.9% reported hypertension and cardiovascular diseases, respectively. Moreover, a substantial proportion (60.2%) of participants had a family history of these diseases. Alarmingly, 51% of respondents did not consider it necessary to undergo annual health checkups, despite the evident prevalence of lifestyle diseases. The survey highlighted that the observed NCDs were primarily outcomes of modern-day lifestyle choices, including sedentary behavior, poor dietary practices, high levels of work-related stress, and regular consumption of alcohol.
[0011] Conversely, participants with healthier habits-such as regular physical exercise and consumption of home-cooked, nutritious meals-were found to be free from these diseases. The study emphasizes the importance of monitoring and managing health risks associated with lifestyle choices and calls for focused public health interventions to improve overall health outcomes and reduce the burden of lifestyle diseases.
[0012] In this respect, before explaining at least one object of the invention in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of set of rules and to the arrangements of the various models set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The invention is capable of other objects and of being practiced and carried out in various ways, according to the need of that industry. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein are for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting.
[0013] These together with other objects of the invention, along with the various features of novelty which characterize the invention, are pointed out with particularity in the disclosure. For a better understanding of the invention, its operating advantages and the specific objects attained by its uses, reference should be made to the accompanying drawings and descriptive matter in which there are illustrated preferred embodiments of the invention.

Detailed description of the Invention
[0014] An embodiment of this invention, illustrating its features, will now be described in detail. The words "comprising," "having," "containing," and "including," and other forms thereof are intended to be equivalent in meaning and be open-ended in that an item or items following any one of these words is not meant to be an exhaustive listing of such item or items or meant to be limited to only the listed item or items.
[0015] The terms "first," "second," and the like, herein do not denote any order, quantity, or importance, but rather are used to distinguish one element from another, and the terms "a" and "an" herein do not denote a limitation of quantity, but rather denote the presence of at least one of the referenced item.

[0016] The invention centres around a comprehensive survey designed to explore the habits and lifestyle choices of individuals residing in Northern India, particularly concerning their predisposition to Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs). Given the rising incidence of NCDs such as diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease, understanding the contributing lifestyle factors is critical. The survey aims to gather actionable insights that can inform public health strategies and promote healthier living within communities.
Study Design and Methodology
[0017] The study was meticulously crafted to ensure a representative sample of the Northern Indian population. The research design involved the following key components:
[0018] Participant Recruitment: A total of 518 participants were recruited from various locations within the Delhi NCR region. Efforts were made to include individuals from different age groups, genders, and socioeconomic backgrounds to ensure a comprehensive analysis of the population's health habits. Recruitment strategies included community outreach, health camps, and collaborations with local healthcare facilities.
[0019] Questionnaire Development: The survey instrument was developed based on existing literature and expert consultations, ensuring its relevance and comprehensiveness. The questionnaire consisted of various sections designed to capture essential data on lifestyle habits, health perceptions, and behaviors. Key areas included:
[0020] Demographic Information: Age, gender, income level, education, and occupation.
[0021] Dietary Practices: Questions regarding frequency of consumption of fruits, vegetables, fast food, and processed foods, as well as cooking methods and meal preparation habits.
[0022] Physical Activity: Self-reported data on the frequency, duration, and intensity of physical activity, including structured exercises and daily routines.
[0023] Health Checkups: Attitudes toward regular medical examinations, frequency of visits to healthcare providers, and reasons for neglecting health checkups.
[0024] Stress Management: Evaluation of perceived stress levels, coping strategies, and work-life balance.
Data Collection Procedures
[0025] The data collection process involved several systematic steps:
[0026] Pilot Testing: Before the full rollout, the questionnaire was pilot-tested with a smaller group to identify any ambiguities or issues in understanding. Feedback from pilot participants helped refine the survey tool.
[0027] Training of Enumerators: Enumerators were trained to ensure consistency and accuracy in data collection. They were educated about the importance of confidentiality and the ethical treatment of participants.
[0028] Conducting Surveys: Surveys were administered both in-person and online, providing participants with the flexibility to choose their preferred method of participation. In-person surveys involved face-to-face interviews to ensure clarity in questions, while online surveys facilitated participation from a wider audience.
Data Analysis Techniques
[0029] The collected data were processed and analyzed using advanced statistical techniques:
[0030] Descriptive Statistics: Basic demographic information and prevalence rates of lifestyle diseases were analyzed using descriptive statistics to summarize the data effectively. This included calculating percentages and means for various lifestyle habits and health outcomes.
[0031] Inferential Statistics: To establish relationships between lifestyle factors and the prevalence of NCDs, inferential statistical methods, such as chi-square tests and logistic regression analyses, were employed. These analyses helped determine the strength of associations between different lifestyle choices and health conditions.
[0032] Risk Factor Identification: The analysis focused on identifying significant risk factors for NCDs among the participants. This included assessing how specific dietary practices, levels of physical activity, and health-seeking behaviors contributed to the likelihood of developing conditions like diabetes and hypertension.
Key Findings of the Study
[0033] The survey produced several critical insights that highlighted the relationship between lifestyle habits and health outcomes:
[0034] Prevalence of Lifestyle Diseases: The study revealed that a significant proportion of participants were affected by lifestyle-related health issues. Among the 518 participants, 25.9% reported being diagnosed with Diabetes Mellitus, while hypertension and cardiovascular disease affected 23.9% and 7.9% of respondents, respectively.
[0035] Risk Factors Identified: Key lifestyle risk factors associated with NCDs were identified:
[0036] Dietary Practices: A high frequency of fast food consumption was correlated with increased rates of obesity and diabetes. The lack of intake of fruits and vegetables was notably prevalent among participants suffering from these diseases.
[0037] Physical Inactivity: Many participants reported low levels of physical activity, with sedentary behaviors contributing significantly to the development of NCDs.
[0038] High Stress Levels: Work-related stress emerged as a substantial risk factor, leading to poor health outcomes and unhealthy coping mechanisms, such as smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
[0039] Health Awareness vs. Health Behavior: Although a high level of awareness regarding lifestyle diseases was reported, many participants did not engage in proactive measures to mitigate their risks. This disconnect highlights a critical area for public health intervention.
Implications of the Study
[0040] The findings of the survey carry significant implications for public health policy and community health initiatives:
[0041] Public Health Interventions: The study underscores the need for targeted public health campaigns aimed at promoting healthier lifestyle choices, including nutritional education, physical activity promotion, and stress management techniques.
[0042] Community Engagement: Encouraging community participation in health initiatives can foster collective action toward adopting healthier behaviors and improving overall public health outcomes.
[0043] Health Checkup Promotion: Emphasizing the importance of regular health checkups can help in early detection and management of lifestyle diseases, potentially reducing morbidity and mortality rates.
[0044] Tailored Health Programs: The findings suggest the development of tailored health programs that address the specific needs and risk factors of different demographic groups within Northern India, considering cultural and socioeconomic contexts.
[0045] The present invention offers valuable insights into the lifestyle choices affecting health outcomes in this region. By identifying key risk factors and understanding the relationship between lifestyle habits and NCD prevalence, the study aims to inform effective public health strategies that can lead to healthier communities and improved quality of life for the population.
[0046] The foregoing descriptions of specific embodiments of the present invention have been presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the present invention to the precise forms disclosed, and obviously many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teaching. The embodiments were chosen and described to best explain the principles of the present invention, and its practical application to thereby enable others skilled in the art to best utilize the present invention and various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. It is understood that various omission and substitutions of equivalents are contemplated as circumstance may suggest or render expedient, but such are intended to cover the application or implementation without departing from the spirit or scope of the claims of the present invention.
, Claims:1. A method for surveying lifestyle habits that predispose individuals to Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) in Northern India, comprising the steps of:
a) recruiting participants from diverse demographic backgrounds,
b) administering a structured questionnaire to gather data on dietary practices, physical activity, health checkups, and stress management, and
c) analyzing the collected data to identify key lifestyle factors associated with the prevalence of NCDs.

2. A system for identifying risk factors associated with lifestyle diseases in Northern India, wherein the system comprises:
a data collection module for administering surveys,
a data analysis module utilizing statistical techniques to correlate lifestyle habits with health outcomes,
a reporting module to present findings on disease prevalence and risk factors.

3. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the survey participants are categorized based on their health status, including those diagnosed with NCDs, those undiagnosed, and healthy individuals, to enable comparative analysis.
4. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the questionnaire includes sections on demographic information, dietary practices, physical activity levels, and health-seeking behaviours.

5. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the data analysis comprises descriptive statistics to summarize participant demographics and health status.

6. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the data analysis comprises inferential statistics to establish correlations between lifestyle habits and the prevalence of NCDs.

7. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the results of the survey are utilized to develop targeted public health interventions aimed at promoting healthier lifestyle choices.

8. The method as claimed in claim 1, further comprising the step of engaging community stakeholders to facilitate awareness campaigns based on the survey findings.

9. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the survey findings are used to inform the development of tailored health programs that address specific risk factors identified within different demographic groups.

10. The system as claimed in claim 2, wherein the data collection module is configured for both online and in-person survey administration to enhance participant accessibility.

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